Created in 1971, the award, according to press notes, honors "individuals or organizations that best exemplify and practice the principles to which Mr. Robeson devoted his life: dedication to the universal brotherhood of all humankind, commitment to the freedom of conscience and of expression, belief in the artist’s responsibility to society, respect for the dignity of the individual and concern for and service to all humans of any race or nationality."

The Actors Equity Foundation, a philanthropic and humanitarian non-profit organization, was created in 1962 to "aid and assist the members of the acting profession and to promote the theatre arts." It is separate from Actors’ Equity Association and receives its funding from estate bequests and individual donations.